Home / Arts and Entertainment / Brady Bunch Casting Shocker: Henderson Replaced Bulifant
Brady Bunch Casting Shocker: Henderson Replaced Bulifant
17 Oct
Summary
- Joyce Bulifant was initially cast as Carol Brady.
- A last-minute network decision brought Florence Henderson in.
- Bulifant was disappointed but grateful for her career.
Actress Joyce Bulifant, aged 88, has shared details about a significant last-minute casting change for the beloved sitcom *The Brady Bunch*. Bulifant had initially been cast as Carol Brady and was preparing to film the pilot episode.
However, just as she was set to showcase wardrobe selections, network executives in New York intervened. They opted for Florence Henderson, who suddenly became available, to play the role of the Brady matriarch. Bulifant recounted that creator Sherwood Schwartz attempted to retain her, believing she would bring a different comedic energy to the show, akin to 'The Lucy Show.'
Despite her disappointment and having already signed a seven-year contract, Bulifant received the going-away suit from the pilot as a parting gift. This setback did not hinder her career, as she went on to enjoy roles in other notable shows, including *The Mary Tyler Moore Show*. She expressed profound gratitude for her overall career and family life.
